Laboratory 11.
Superficial Anatomy of the Lower ExtremityStep 1.
Reflect the Skin of the Anterior Thigh and Leg

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Note: To limit the turning of the body, which is necessary to study the anterior and posterior aspects of the lower extremity, Steps 1-6 describe structures seen on anterior view, and Steps 7-8 describes those structures seen on posterior view.

Place the cadaver in the supine position and make the skin incisions shown in Figure 11.1. Then, reflect the skin from the midline, taking care not to damage the superficial structures (veins, and nerves) that lie immediately deep to it. Next, remove the superficial fascia and identify the deep fascia which surrounds the muscles of the thigh and leg. In the thigh, the deep fascia is called the fascia lata. Within its superior part, a muscle, called the tensor fascia lata muscle, will be identified later. The fascia lata thickens to form a strong band called the iliotibial tract on the lateral side of the thigh.